Articles tagged with Health Care Delivery
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A survey of primary care physicians reveals most would provide only partial disclosure of medical errors, falling short of patient expectations and national guidelines. The strongest predictors of disclosure were perceived personal responsibility, seriousness of the event, and value of patient-centered communication.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that palliative care was associated with improvements in patient quality of life, symptom burden, and advance care planning. The findings suggest that palliative care can have a positive impact on patients' lives, but more research is needed to identify the most effective interventions.
Researchers found inconsistencies in patient care after ICU discharge, with factors like poor communication, lack of knowledge, and time pressures contributing to issues. Effective rehabilitation requires a comprehensive approach involving health professionals, patients, and families.
A recent study from Indiana University highlights the challenges of ensuring medical care is consistent with patient preferences. The authors propose practical recommendations to overcome barriers, including documenting specific treatment preferences and reviewing patient records regularly.
A new study found that heart surgery patients' chances of survival depend on the overall level of teamwork among all physicians who cared for them. Tight 'social networks' of physicians are linked to improved patient outcomes, including lower readmission rates and reduced mortality.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that a new health accord for Canada should enable wholesale change in the federal-provincial relationship. The journal calls for flexible approach to allow for health system innovation and federal funding to improve the overall healthcare system without prespecified targets.
A recent study found that patients who continued with their prescribed medical therapy after stent or bypass surgery had significantly better outcomes than non-adherent patients. Adherence to antiplatelets and statins was a more powerful predictor of adverse event-free survival than the type of revascularization procedure.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that pregnancy significantly increased the risk of stroke in women under 35, but not in those over 45. The researchers analyzed data from over 19,000 women hospitalized for stroke between 2003 and 2012.
A home-based palliative care (HBPC) program for individuals with advanced illnesses was associated with significant cost savings and improved quality of care. The study found a mean total cost of care per person reduced by $12,000, fewer hospital admissions, and greater use of hospice during the final three months of life.
The new opioid urgent care center provides a full continuum of treatment services, including detoxification and follow-up care, to patients with substance use disorders. Faster Paths integrates BMC's existing addiction services to streamline access to treatment.
The study found improvements in some quality measures, such as recommended medical treatment and cancer screening, but worsened in others, like antibiotic use. Patient experience ratings also showed significant gains. However, deficits in care continue to pose serious health risks.
A 7-state research consortium led by Henry Ford Health System has been awarded funding to expand the NIH's Precision Medicine Initiative Cohort Program. The program aims to enroll 1 million participants and collect data on lifestyle, environment, and genetics influencing health and disease risk.
A randomized controlled trial involving over 300 informal health care providers in West Bengal found that training increased correct case management for ailments like angina, diarrhea, and asthma. However, the training did not significantly affect drug prescribing behavior, including antibiotic overprescription.
A study published in JAMA Surgery found that implementing lean processes reduced average surgical wait times from 33 days to 12 days, while increasing operative volume and reducing no-shows. The improvements were sustained over multiple areas and seen during the implementation of new technologies.
A 10-year study shows that integrating mental and physical healthcare results in higher screening rates, more proactive treatment, and better clinical outcomes for patients. Patients in team-based practices had lower rates of healthcare utilization and costs compared to traditional practices.
A study found that integrated team-based care practices were associated with higher rates of quality measures, such as active depression screening and adherence to diabetes care bundles. This approach also led to lower rates of acute care utilization and reduced payments received by the delivery system.
A recent analysis calls for broader support for patients with serious chronic illnesses, moving away from end-of-life focus and expanding medical education. Canada ranks 18th worldwide in palliative care availability and must develop more strategies to promote care to patients with non-cancerous illnesses.
The Einstein-Montefiore and CUNY research team will use the data for their own research projects, addressing scientific clinical and healthcare delivery questions that inform care in Central Africa and beyond. The ongoing study involves over 50,000 HIV-positive children and adults taking anti-retroviral therapy.
The study found that despite progress toward universal coverage, citizens still reported gaps in primary care organization, financing, and delivery in six Latin American and Caribbean countries. People with better experiences at the primary care level were less likely to say their health system needed major reforms.
A recent study in Health Affairs highlights critical primary care shortcomings in Latin American countries, including high rates of skipping needed care and emergency department usage. The findings emphasize the urgent need for attention to address these gaps as populations continue to age.
A new study finds that patients taken directly to endovascular centers receive treatment 99 minutes earlier than those transferred from one hospital to another. This reduces the chance of a good outcome by 30-40%. Implementing this insight could improve patient outcomes nationwide.
Researchers found that low UPSIT scores predicted dementia and cognitive decline in older adults, while entorhinal cortical thickness was associated with UPSIT score in those who transitioned to dementia. Odor identification testing may be useful in detecting early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
A study analyzed Medicare beneficiaries and found that admission to primary stroke centers (PSCs) was associated with lower seven-day and 30-day death rates. However, longer travel times of at least 90 minutes to PSCs appeared to offset any benefit of care there.
The University of Minnesota, Medica Research Institute, and HealthPartners Institute will study the impact of the Patient Centered Medical Home model on diabetes care in Minnesota. The research aims to identify specific changes in primary care offices that have improved health outcomes for patients with diabetes.
A new web-based data facility has been launched to aid the creation and implementation of patient-centered care policy. The Measure for Person Centred Coordinated Care (P3C) provides a compendium of measures for person centred care, making it easier to source information for commissioners and researchers.
A systematic review of 69 studies found that VA facilities offer similar or superior quality care in some areas, such as mortality rates and preventive services. The study suggests that the VA healthcare system compares favorably with other health care settings.
The VA healthcare system generally delivers safe and effective care similar to other health systems, with some exceptions. However, studies on timeliness, equity, efficiency, and patient-centeredness show mixed results.
A new study describes a scalable solution for transforming health-care delivery in primary care into the PCMH model. A simplified form of cognitive task analysis (CTA) was used to analyze how doctors' office staff thought about and delivered care, advising them on improvements.
The grant will support Columbia University's Precision Medicine Initiative and integrate special populations into translational research efforts. The Irving Institute aims to increase focus on precision medicine, develop translational therapeutics, and nurture a cadre of junior scientists with diverse backgrounds.
A systematic literature review by The Dartmouth Institute found that multicomponent strategies targeting both patient and clinician involvement are effective in reducing low-value care. These interventions include providing feedback to physicians and medical staff on their use of low-value services.
A review article argues that telehealth will transform healthcare delivery, providing access to care at a lower cost. The authors identify three trends reshaping telehealth: making care more accessible, expanding its application beyond acute conditions, and migrating from hospitals to home and mobile devices.
The UC Riverside School of Medicine has received a $2.3 million grant to integrate medical student education, resident training, and faculty development in primary care specialties. The goal is to address health disparities and improve healthcare delivery in low-income areas of inland Southern California.
Researchers identified innovative strategies to overcome barriers to integrating mind-body medicine into primary care, including group patient visits and stress management conversations. The study aims to increase the integration of mindfulness, hypnosis, and biofeedback techniques into mainstream medical practice.
The WHO has developed an Emergency Medical Teams concept to provide surge support to national health systems in disaster situations. The United States has not adopted this concept, despite over 64 countries launching or developing teams.
Four NYC medical centers, including Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine, will collaborate on a $46.5 million NIH grant to enroll 1 million+ US volunteers in the Precision Medicine Initiative Cohort Program. The program aims to improve health outcomes by understanding individual differences in lifestyle, environment, and genetics.
Researchers from GW University developed a conceptual model for acute, unscheduled care, identifying issues with current care delivery and proposing ways to improve it. The model incorporates social determinants and care-seeking decisions to optimize outcomes and reduce costs.
The NY State Dept of Health AIDS Institute has funded $3.75 million in grants to support HIV/AIDS prevention among at-risk youth in NYC. Project STAY, a comprehensive health program, aims to provide education, screenings, and linkages to care for young people engaged in risk-taking behaviors.
A study published in The BMJ found that less than 60% of premature babies born in 11 European countries received a package of four simple, widely available care measures known to improve survival. Receiving full evidence-based care was associated with improved survival rates.
A new German research project will examine migrant care workers' arrangements, comparing Germany's family-responsibility model with the Netherlands' state-framed system. The study aims to assess care quality in private households and its socio-political significance.
Studies show that e-consults can decrease wait times, improve clinical care, and reduce the need for face-to-face appointments. The use of electronic consultations increases access to specialists' care for patients who often have difficulty getting a specialist, including the uninsured and underinsured.
A new study by the Dartmouth Institute found that Medicare Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) are making modest gains in reducing high-cost care settings. For patients with multiple conditions, ACOs saved an estimated $136 per patient annually, while clinically vulnerable patients saw savings of $456 per year.
A new study by Dr. Joel Ray found that women born in the Caribbean or Africa are two times more likely to be admitted to an intensive care unit at the time of their delivery than Canadian-born women. The risk is higher for mothers from Jamaica and Ghana, with rates up to 2.7 times higher than Canadian-born women.
A new study by Rice University health economists aims to understand the association between physician-hospital integration and healthcare quality and price. The project will analyze data from 2008-2013 to examine the effects of integration on patient outcomes, readmission rates, and hospital finances.
Allina Health's LifeCourse approach demonstrates significantly better quality of life scores for patients with chronic illness compared to usual care. The program employs a patient-centered experience tool to understand and support the needs of complex patients.
A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that young African-American adults are less susceptible to delirium in the ICU compared to Caucasians of the same age group. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,000 adults, also revealed differences in medication use and disease severity between racial groups.
Penn State College of Medicine faculty define health systems science and its curriculum, complementing basic and clinical sciences. They identified 12 core domains and cross-cutting domains to be included in medical school curricula.
A new study shows that the innovative OnTouch Via patch enabled over 50% of diabetes patients to report improved insulin dose compliance. The wearable patch allows for discreet delivery of rapid-acting insulin at mealtimes, reducing stress and anxiety associated with dosing.
A panel of international experts has published a Consensus Statement recommending how to deliver cardiac rehab components at low cost in developing countries. The statement recommends leveraging affordable technologies and community health workers to increase access to life-saving programs.
Researchers found that men with localized prostate cancer often underestimate their life expectancy without treatment and overestimate the benefits of surgery or radiation. This can lead to overtreatment, decisional regret, and decreased post-treatment quality of life. A recent study published in the Annals of Family Medicine suggests ...
A new study suggests that lowering blood pressure goals for adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease could prevent up to 43,000 additional deaths from cardiovascular disease each year. The simulation also found that intensive blood pressure treatment would be cost-effective and improve treatment outcomes for men.
Two new studies published in The Lancet find no association between weekend senior doctor staffing levels and mortality, instead highlighting variations in quality of care throughout the week. Researchers suggest that policies to address weekend quality of care alone represent a major oversimplification of the problem.
Researchers from NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine found that the landmark national study's methodology was flawed, leading to misinterpreted results that questioned the effectiveness of PSA testing. They suggest reconsidering prostate cancer screening guidelines.
Outpatient oral antibiotic prescriptions were estimated to be 30% inappropriate in the US, with an annual impact of 34 million unnecessary prescriptions. A 15% reduction in overall antibiotic use is necessary to meet the White House National Action Plan goal by 2020.
A new study reveals substantial disparities in healthcare quality experienced by Hispanic Puerto Rican residents in Medicare Advantage plans. Despite making up nearly a quarter of enrolled residents, Puerto Ricans received significantly worse care on 15 of 17 quality indicators, with gaps exceeding 5 percentage points.
A study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that using a hearing aid significantly improves cognitive test scores in older adults with hearing loss. The researchers suggest that this may help prevent or slow the development of dementia.
Researchers have discovered a new neurodevelopmental syndrome caused by GNB1 gene mutations, leading to severe developmental delays and seizures. Whole-exome sequencing of patients revealed the genetic mutations, paving the way for targeted therapies.
Programs to prevent inappropriate medication use, reduce unnecessary medical procedures, and link vulnerable adults to Medicare are highlighted at the AGS16 meeting. These initiatives aim to improve quality of care and address population growth needs for older adults.
Experts estimate that expanding proven interventions in pregnancy care, infectious disease treatment, and childhood nutrition could avert millions of maternal, newborn, and child deaths annually. The estimated investment required is approximately $6-12 billion per year, equivalent to just $4.7-$6.7 per person.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has identified six promising practices to improve healthcare for individuals with social risk factors. These practices include commitment to health equity, data and measurement, comprehensive needs assessment, collaborative partnerships, care continuity, and engaging patient...
The University of Stirling has developed an innovative activity toolkit to support people living with dementia. The 'gardens' themed kit provides a group activity pack to prompt conversation and reminiscence, aiming to bring benefits such as constructive conversations, social connections, and engagement with personal histories.